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From: reservations@benedictsbus.com
To:
Chicago to Toronto: Cruise the 5 Great Lakes!
August 2 to 13, 2025

Cost Inclusions: Roundtrip Motorcoach Transportation, kickoff breakfast, 1 night lodging en route to Chicago, luggage service,
1-night pre-cruise lodging in Chicago, 10-Day Great Lakes Cruise aboard the Victory I, government taxes and port expenses, all meals onboard ship, all entertainment on the cruise, use of amenities, all-you-can-drink beverage package, unlimited WiFi, included shore excursions at every port, gratuities for all ship staff, service charges, farewell lunch, and hostess service.

Deluxe Outside Stateroom with Veranda - AA Category (per person costs)
$9,759 pp Double / $15,929 pp Single
Embrace the ever-changing scenery from your veranda. offering direct access to the open-air Promenade Deck. This plush haven features a queen bed (or two single beds), a writing desk for capturing your adventures, a full bathroom, and a flat-screen TV for unwinding and relaxing.
 
Outside Stateroom with Window - B Category (per person costs)
$8,159 pp Double / $13,129 pp Single
Relax after a long day of discovery in your well-appointed stateroom. Queen bed (or two singles), a writing desk to capture memories, and a full bathroom. Relax with in-suite entertainment, plush amenities, and glimpse of the ever-changing landscape. It's everything you need to recharge.

$1,000 per person deposit due within three weeks of booking. Space will be released if deposit is not received. $500 of the deposit is non-refundable. If cancellation occurs 120 days or less before departure, additional cancellation penalties will be incurred. Final balance is due 3/25/25. Please click the "Travel Insurance" link at the top right of our webpage to purchase travel insurance.



Chicago to Toronto! From vibrant cities to pristine wilderness, this voyage unveils the heartland's hidden gems. Discover Chicago's dynamic energy, explore the rich history and beauty of the Great Lakes, and experience the vibrant tapestry of Canadian culture, culminating in Toronto's cosmopolitan allure. This unforgettable cruise blends urban excitement with natural wonder.

Ports Include:
Chicago, IL
Escanaba, MI
Mackinac Island, MI
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Detroit, MI
Cleveland, OH
Niagara Falls, ON
Toronto, ON

PLEASE NOTE: All trips and itineraries are subject to change, pending factors beyond our control.


Saturday, August 2 – Montpelier, OH

  • Depart from the terminal. Available pickups: Mansfield, Lawrenceville, Painted Post, Bath
  • BREAKFAST is included this morning. Lunch and rest breaks will be made as needed en route.
  • Arrive in MONTPELIER, OH and check-in to a HOTEL for your 1-NIGHT STAY.
  • Enjoy the evening at your leisure. Dinner will be on your own this evening.

Sunday, August 3 – Chicago, IL 

  • BREAKFAST is included at the hotel this morning.
  • Depart.
  • Arrive in CHICAGO, IL and enjoy FREE TIME for lunch on your own.
  • This afternoon check-in to your hotel for a 1-NIGHT STAY. Experience the vibrant energy of Chicago with a stay in one of the city’s welcoming hotels. Bold, brazen and distinctly American, Chicago has personality to spare. From your embarkation point at Navy Pier to towering skyscrapers to regional cuisine and a quirky dialect, this city represents the heart and soul of the Midwest. Magnificent Mile is an adventure to remember, and the locals know the hidden mom-and-pop gems serving the best deep-dish pizza, Italian beef and signature Chicago dogs.

Monday, August 4 – Embarkation - Chicago, IL

  • Start your adventure in the Windy City of Chicago. Visit the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, take a scenic walk through Millennium Park, and enjoy a river cruise to see the city’s famous architecture. Indulge in world-class dining and vibrant nightlife before setting sail.
  • Tonight, board the VICTORY I. Get ready to experience pure relaxation while sailing on this all-inclusive excursion.

Tuesday, August 5 –  Lake Michigan

  • SCENIC SAILING ON LAKE MICHIGAN...Relax as you sail the clear waters of Lake Michigan. Take in the stunning coastal views, watch for local wildlife, and enjoy the peacefulness of the open water.

Wednesday, August 6 – Escanada, MI

  • ESCANABA, MI...Explore the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Visit the historic Fayette Historic State Park, hike the trails of Hiawatha National Forest, and discover the region’s rich history at the Delta County Historical Museum.

Thursday August 7 – Mackinac Island, MI

  • MACKINAC ISLAND, MI...Step back in time on the charming Mackinac Island. Tour the historic Fort Mackinac, ride a horse-drawn carriage through the picturesque streets, and savor the island’s famous fudge.

Friday August 8 – Sault Ste. Marie (SOO Locks), MI

  • SAULT STE. MARIE (SOO LOCKS), MI...Witness the impressive Soo Locks in action. Visit the Tower of History for panoramic views, explore the River of History Museum, and enjoy outdoor activities like boating and fishing in the St. Marys River.
  • SOO LOCKS...The Soo Locks are a set of parallel locks located on the St. Marys River between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. They enable ships to bypass the rapids of the river, which drop about 21 feet, allowing vessels to travel between the two Great Lakes. These locks are critical to shipping and commerce in the region, particularly for transporting iron ore, coal, and other goods through the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway.
  • SCENIC SAILING ON LAKE SUPERIOR...Enjoy a scenic sailing day on Lake Superior. See untamed beauty unfold as dramatic cliffs & historic hidden harbors whisper tales of the past.

Saturday, August 9 – Lake Huron

  • SCENIC SAILING ON LAKE HURON...Cruise across the expansive Lake Huron. Marvel at the beautiful shoreline, enjoy the spectacular sunsets, and relax in the tranquility of the open water.

Sunday, August 10 – Detroit, MI

  • DETROIT, MI...Dive into Detroit’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, explore the revitalized RiverWalk, and experience the city’s vibrant music scene.
  • SCENIC SAILING ON LAKE ERIE...Enjoy a day of scenic sailing on Lake Erie. History sails alongside you as we ply these waters. Imagine grand ships & the War of 1812. Vibrant cities beckon from the shore.

Monday, August 11 – Cleveland, OH

  • CLEVELAND, OH...Cleveland’s vibrant renaissance. Visit the Cleveland History Center, explore the trendy Ohio City neighborhood, and take a relaxing walk in the Rocky River Reservation. Don’t miss the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Tuesday, August 12 – Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), ON

  • NIAGARA FALLS (PORT COLBORNE), ON...Experience the breathtaking power of Niagara Falls. Explore the charming town of Port Colborne, visit the Welland Canal, and enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront parks.
  • SCENIC SAILING ON LAKE ONTARIO...Scenic sailing on Lake Ontario is exhilarating. Urban beauty unfolds as you cruise past towering skylines and experience captivating sunsets as they paint the horizon.

Wednesday, August 13 – Disembarkation - Toronto, ON

  • End your journey in TORONTO, ON. A BENEDICT'S MOTORCOACH will be waiting to take you home after you disembark.
  • A FAREWELL LUNCH is included en route.
  • Arrive home with once-in-a-lifetime memories of sailing all 5 GREAT LAKES!



The Victory I is a boutique cruise ship operated by Victory Cruise Lines, designed for intimate and luxurious voyages along coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and other scenic destinations. With a capacity of around 202 passengers, the ship offers an upscale, small-ship experience, emphasizing personalized service and attention to detail.

Key features of the Victory I include:

  • Elegant, classic décor with modern amenities
  • Spacious staterooms, many with large windows or private balconies for stunning views
  • Stylish dining venues offering gourmet cuisine with regional influences
  • Comfortable lounges, a sun deck, and a bar for relaxation and socializing
  • Enrichment programs, lectures, and guided shore excursions for a culturally immersive experience
  • Open bars and lounges throughout the ship
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • 24-hour onboard gym
  • Salon and Spa featuring indulgent spa treatments

The Victory I delivers a relaxed, intimate cruising atmosphere with an emphasis on exploration and refined comfort.


Included excursions are included in your cruise package. There will be 1 shore excursion per port included in your cruise package.  Below are some examples of included shore excursions. They are subject to change and will be listed as we are closer to the sailing date.

Premium excursions can be booked (if available) at an additional charge. Premium excursions and prices will be announced at a later date.


Detroit, MI

  • Henry Ford Museum Discovery Tour ...Discover the fascinating world of innovation and American history with a complimentary shore excursion to the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit, Michigan. Immerse yourself in a collection of remarkable artifacts, from iconic automobiles and pioneering inventions to historical exhibits that showcase the ingenuity and vision that shaped the modern world. This enriching experience offers an in-depth look at the extraordinary legacies and cultural milestones that continue to inspire and educate visitors. Explore exhibits dedicated to the evolution of transportation, the rise of American industry, and the incredible stories of individuals who changed the course of history with their groundbreaking ideas and inventions.

Cleveland, OH

  • Rock & Roll Hall of Fame...Experience the vibrant history of rock music with a complimentary shore excursion to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. Immerse yourself in a world of legendary musicians, iconic artifacts, and groundbreaking performances that have defined generations. Explore exhibits that celebrate the pioneers and trailblazers of rock and roll, from Elvis Presley and The Beatles to modern icons. Delve into the stories behind the music, the cultural impact of rock and roll, and the evolution of the genre. This enriching tour provides a comprehensive look at the artists and moments that have shaped music history, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of rock and roll.

Mackinac Island, MI

  • Mackinac Island Carriage Adventure...Experience the timeless charm of Mackinac Island with a complimentary shore excursion that includes a delightful carriage ride. Travel back in time as you explore this picturesque island in a horse-drawn carriage, passing by historic landmarks, stunning Victorian architecture, and the island’s beautiful natural landscapes. Learn about the island’s rich history, from its Native American roots to its role in the fur trade and its development as a beloved tourist destination. This enriching excursion offers an in-depth look at the unique history and tranquil beauty of Mackinac Island, allowing you to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere and discover the stories and traditions that make this destination truly special.

Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), ON

  • Majestic Niagara Boat Adventure...Experience the awe-inspiring power and beauty of Niagara Falls with an included shore excursion that features a thrilling boat ride. Feel the refreshing mist on your face as you journey up close to the magnificent waterfalls, witnessing the breathtaking cascades from a unique vantage point. This exhilarating excursion offers an in-depth look at one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, providing an unforgettable experience as you navigate the waters and explore the history and geology of the falls. Learn about the legends and captivating stories surrounding Niagara Falls and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, making this a truly memorable and magical adventure.
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